Yaropolk was a historical figure who served as a prince in the Kievan Rus' during the late 10th century. He was the son of Svyatoslav I and the brother of Vladimir the Great. Yaropolk is often remembered for his conflicts with his siblings over control of the principality, which was a common occurrence in the dynastic struggles of the time. His reign was marked by political intrigue and warfare, particularly against his brother Oleg. Yaropolk's rule ended when he was killed in 978, leading to Vladimir the Great ascending to power. This shift significantly influenced the future of Kievan Rus' and its eventual Christianization.